Not that anyone cares what I think about this subject, but I'm going to chime in with my thoughts just like everyone else.

The subject is the movie that everyone is talking about, The Passion of The Christ. I should point out first of all that I have not seen the movie, so I cannot speak completely objectively; however, the things which are bothering me the most are not dependent on whether or not I've seen the movie. The violence of the movie does not bother me, nor do I believe that the movie is "anti-semitic", as many have argued. Since I speak as a Latter-day Saint, I should point out that I'm also not bothered by the R-rating. There are two things that disturb me tremendously about the movie, though.

First, the movement by Christian churches across the nation to see this movie and use it as a "missionary tool". Churches rent entire theaters to view this film. I've seen local television commercials advertising this movie and encouraging viewers to "see the movie, then go to fill_in_the_blank church to talk about it". I recently received a postcard from a group of churches for the same reason - to encourage people to go see the movie and then go to their church to talk about it.

This bothers me for several reasons. First, the movie is about the crucifixion of Christ. Although it may do a tremendous job of portraying this event in Christ's life, it does not focus on the most important aspects of His life - His teachings and His triumph over spiritual and physical death. Still, this does not bother me. I am bothered by the religious fervor shown toward this film. The attitude of these churches seems to me to be nothing less than idol worship. It is as if they had nothing to teach until now, but finally they have a way to get their message out! This is absurd. This film does nothing to change the original message. If people spent as much time sharing their faith and religion with others as they spend advertising this film, certainly the nation would witness a strong spiritual surge - with or without this film.

Second, I am disturbed by the merchandising of the movie. To wear a necklace with a nail hanging from it seems just plain sick to me. It is distasteful at best.

I have nothing against the movie and am still contemplating whether I will see it or not. I hope that the churches who are treating this movie as more than what it is - a movie - realize their folly and repent.